Strawberry French Toast Casserole

A Decadent Breakfast Treat

There’s nothing quite like a warm, sweet, and creamy breakfast to start your day, and this Strawberry French Toast Casserole delivers on all fronts. Whether you’re looking for a special weekend brunch recipe, a make-ahead breakfast for a busy morning, or something indulgent to impress your guests, this dish is the perfect choice.

Packed with fresh strawberries, rich cream cheese, and the comforting flavors of maple syrup and vanilla, this casserole is a delightful twist on classic French toast. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance, making your morning stress-free. Let’s dive into everything you need to know to make this delicious dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Perfect for Meal Prep: Assemble everything the night before and simply bake it in the morning.
  • Crowd-Pleasing: Great for holiday mornings, brunch with friends, or a special family breakfast.
  • Easy to Customize: Swap out the fruit, use different types of bread, or add a touch of cinnamon for a warm spice.
  • Rich and Decadent: The combination of cream cheese and strawberries creates a creamy, sweet, and slightly tangy filling that pairs perfectly with the fluffy baked French toast.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Casserole:

  • 12 slices home-style white bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 2 (8-ounce) packages cold cream cheese, cut into 1-inch cubes
  • 1 ½ cups sliced fresh strawberries
  • 2 cups half-and-half
  • 12 large eggs
  • ⅓ cup pure maple syrup

For the Strawberry Sauce:

  • 1 cup white sugar
  • 1 cup water
  • 2 tablespoons cornstarch
  • 1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
  • 1 tablespoon butter

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

  • 9×13-inch baking dish
  • Blender or whisk
  • Mixing bowls
  • Saucepan
  • Spatula
  • Aluminum foil

Step-By-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Baking Dish

Generously grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent sticking. This will ensure easy serving and a beautiful presentation.

Step 2: Layer the Bread and Filling

  1. Arrange half of the bread cubes in the bottom of the prepared baking dish.
  2. Evenly distribute the cream cheese cubes over the bread.
  3. Sprinkle 1 ½ cups of sliced strawberries over the cream cheese.
  4. Layer the remaining bread cubes on top.

Step 3: Make the Custard Mixture

  1. Pour half-and-half into a blender and pulse for a few seconds.
  2. Add eggs and blend until fully incorporated.
  3. Add maple syrup and blend until smooth.

Step 4: Soak the Bread

  1. Pour the custard mixture evenly over the layered bread and strawberries.
  2. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and refrigerate for at least 8 hours or overnight. This allows the bread to fully absorb the custard, ensuring a rich and creamy texture.

Step 5: Bake the Casserole

  1. Remove the dish from the refrigerator 45 minutes before baking to bring it closer to room temperature.
  2. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
  3. Bake the covered casserole for 30 minutes.
  4. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 30 minutes until golden brown and puffed up.

Step 6: Make the Strawberry Sauc

Storage and Reheating Tips

  • Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  • Freezing: Wrap individual portions in plastic wrap and store in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months.
  • Reheating: Warm in the microwave for 30-60 seconds or bake at 350°F for 10-15 minutes to regain the crispy texture.

Recipe Variations

  • Berry Bliss: Swap strawberries for blueberries, raspberries, or a mix of berries.
  • Chocolate Lover’s Dream: Add chocolate chips between the bread layers.
  • Cinnamon Swirl: Sprinkle ground cinnamon and nutmeg into the custard for extra warmth.
  • Nutty Crunch: Top with chopped pecans or almonds before baking for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this Strawberry French Toast Casserole with:

  • A hot cup of coffee or chai latte for a cozy morning.
  • Crispy bacon or sausage to balance the sweetness.
  • Fresh fruit salad for a refreshing contrast.
  • A dollop of whipped cream for extra indulgence.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this casserole dairy-free?
Yes! Use dairy-free cream cheese and substitute coconut milk or almond milk for the half-and-half.

Can I use a different type of bread?
Absolutely! Try brioche, challah, or even croissants for a richer texture.

Do I have to refrigerate it overnight?
Refrigerating overnight gives the best texture, but if you’re short on time, let it soak for at least 2 hours before baking.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Yes! Use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.

Final Thoughts & Call to Action

This Strawberry French Toast Casserole is the ultimate breakfast dish—easy to prepare, bursting with fresh fruit flavor, and perfect for any special occasion. Whether you’re hosting brunch or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is sure to impress.

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Happy cooking!

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